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A family-owned Sicilian restaurant on Cleveland Street that has been serving downtown Clearwater since 2019 is the Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency's August 2026 Business Spotlight winner.
Soul Sicilian Fusion, at 516 Cleveland Street, is co-owned by Nello Menza and Natalya Harrison. The restaurant is Chef Menza's first in the United States. He was born and raised in Catania, Sicily, according to the restaurant's website.
The CRA announced the recognition on Friday, July 31, saying the restaurant has brought Sicilian flavors to downtown Clearwater and become known for its scratch-made cuisine and welcoming atmosphere since opening seven years ago.
The menu features handmade pasta, fresh seafood, Roman Pinsa, house-made desserts, and gelato, with many dishes prepared from scratch using traditional Sicilian recipes. An Italian wine list rounds out the offerings.
The spotlight comes alongside a separate honor: Soul Sicilian Fusion was recently named Best Italian Restaurant in Clearwater, according to the CRA's announcement. The awarding body was not identified in the announcement.
On OpenTable, the restaurant holds a 4.6-star rating from 554 diners, with reviewers calling it a "hidden gem" for authentic Sicilian food.
The CRA's Business Spotlight Program showcases nine businesses every other month within the downtown Clearwater and North Greenwood redevelopment areas. The program launched in January 2026 to recognize businesses that contribute to economic vibrancy in the corridors.
Menza has also published a cookbook, "The Flavors of My Life: A Collection of Authentic Sicilian Recipes from Home to Yours," which contains more than 30 authentic Sicilian recipes drawn from his upbringing in Catania. The book is available on Amazon and promoted on the restaurant's own website. Its tagline: "Authentic Sicilian Cuisine. Made with Tradition. Made with Love."
According to the CRA, Soul Sicilian Fusion is open Tuesday through Saturday, 5 to 9:30 p.m. The restaurant's website also lists lunch service; diners should confirm hours directly. Reservations are available through OpenTable or by calling (727) 754-3259.
